Dhaka:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir announced today that world leaders have recognized Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as a "transformative leader" amidst Bangladesh's democratic transition.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Humaiun Kobir shared this development while briefing reporters at the Bangladesh Pavilion during the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31). He noted that the Prime Minister's leadership had garnered significant interest from global leaders at the conference.
The Prime Minister participated in the World Leaders' Summit's opening and plenary sessions and engaged in courtesy calls and bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng. Additionally, meetings were held with the Presidents of Brazil, the Maldives, Iran, Syria, and Somalia, as well as the Prime Ministers of Moldova, Pakistan, and Kuwait. The Prime Minister also interacted with OIC Secretary General, London Mayor, and Zero Waste Foundation President.
During these interactions, leaders congratulated the Prime Minister on Bangladesh's democratic transition and expressed a keen interest in strengthening bilateral ties and collaborating on international issues. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to the Brazilian President to visit Bangladesh, while the Maldivian President also showed interest in visiting soon. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa sought Bangladesh's cooperation in areas such as reconstruction and investment.
In talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, discussions focused on regional stability and mutual interests, while discussions with Kuwait's Prime Minister centered on investment and economic partnerships. Bangladesh reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution in Palestine during discussions with the OIC Secretary General.
The meeting with Uzbekistan's President involved discussions on launching direct flights and easing visa procedures, with an invitation extended to the Prime Minister to visit Uzbekistan. In discussions with China's Vice President, there was a focus on strengthening political and economic ties, with an emphasis on Chinese investment in key sectors. The possibility of a regional economic corridor and China's role in resolving the Rohingya crisis were also discussed.
The Prime Minister's meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was described as fruitful, covering political relations and mutual cooperation. The Prime Minister's wife, Dr. Zubaida Rahman, attended a side event on zero waste management, highlighting government initiatives.
The Prime Minister is set to present Bangladesh's climate change priorities at the World Leaders' Summit, with further important engagements scheduled. Prime Minister's Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibli and Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu attended the press conference.